Following are some ideas to consider prior to doing your remodeling and help you get off on the right foot.
If you’re a do-it-yourselfer, take some time to make a plan. Inquire at the hardware stores if they provide classes to help you learn more about "How To’s". Check the Internet too, for some great information on those items you may not have a good knowledge of or how to tackle it.
Be sure to check with your municipality as to what is required regarding permits. Better to do that BEFORE you begin the work. If you go forward and later they find out about it, you may have to pay a fine, or even take the work apart and have it redone. Do it right the first time. If it involves plumbing, electric or changing the structure of the home, be sure to use a licensed contractor. When you go to sell your home, the REALTOR will want to know who did the work and if it is done according to the "building code".
If you’re going to hire someone to do the jobs, be sure to talk to your friends for referrals to someone reliable. Depending on the job, it can take a long time to get ‘er done! Be sure to ask for and get referrals. Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if they have any complaints against the company you’re planning on using. Try to get some one with experience in the field and that is registered with the state as doing business here. Ask about warranties or guarantees. If you plan on having a kitchen remodeled, it can take 3-6 months to get though it. Sometimes the appliances or other items that are sent to you are damaged or not what you really wanted after you’ve gotten it. It will take longer to find another replacement part or item, particularly if you are undecided or they no longer carry the item you wanted. Be prepared to eat out alot and be incovenienced. Water will need to be shut off, electric too! If you’re having the floors done, you won’t be able to walk on them for a while.
Be sure to keep a notebook of your choices, including paint chips, model numbers, contact information and a list of restaurants that deliver! Even the best of companies have problems to deal with; patience and understanding will go along way to helping you through the process.
Will you pay by the hour or by the job being done (time & material)? Are you getting a discount that the remodeler passes on to you? Be sure you have EVERYTHING in writing! Remember: Who, What, When, Where & Why. Again, get it in writing!
Kitchen cabinets in the "new" height of 42" cabinets are the most desired. You can’t have too much cabinet space. Don’t add granite tops or new hardware on old 80’s cabinets. It will appear you’ve been cutting corners.
You may want to consider choosing a light to medium stain when refinishing floors or installing new wood floors. You can always darken them, but it is expensive to lighten them at a later date.
Choosing laminate or parquet may be less expensive, but think "RESALE". Quality pays off in the long run.
Choose neutral colors for the walls; you can spice up the look with your color palette and change it frequently if you want.
Today’s buyers prefer main floor laundries and first floor family rooms. More and more folks are wanting a first floor master suite too (if you’re planning on adding on).
Larger walk-in closets, pantries and laundries near the bedrooms are on the "A" list.
In ground pools may be great, but most people in colder climates just think of them as a liability. If you want one, know that selling your property may be more difficult. You are buying it for your enjoyment and most likely will not recover the cost of putting it in. If you’re O.K. with that, go for it. Enjoy!
Plan for remodeling the adjacent room too, as you won’t want your project to appear to be a poorly planned rennovation.
Avoid textured walls, wallpaper and those popcorn ceilings; all are percieved to be difficult to deal with when it comes to painting. If you do add wallpaper, size the walls first, so it will be easier to remove, if necessary. Use wallpaper in a small amount, if at all.
Remember that laughter is good for the soul and keep a light heart when you start the project. Yes, there will be problems, but in the end, you’ll be so pleased with the results! It’ll pay off if you’re redoing the kitchen or baths, when you sell. Good Luck!
Judy Sepac 314-744-4771 www.judysepac.com 
Loading ...